Your Learning Happy Place

Admittedly, the circumstances we face are less than ideal right now. Thinking about a happy place may be really challenging. Take a look at the ideas below for creating a space for learning, and determine what is possible for you. Start with those ideas and then build from there as you are able.

Before I jump into what to do, lets talk briefly about why creating a space for learning is important for your success as an online student.

Our brains are strongly influenced by what we experience around us. They also thrive on consistency, which is why changing a habit often requires a change of environment. Creating a designated, special learning environment will help your brain 1) know when it is time to focus on and learn class material and 2) recall that material with greater ease on tests and assignments. Using the space you create will also signal to anyone in your household that you are "in school," helping you to set boundaries with children, roommates, parents, spouses, etc. That also promotes your success.

Photographs of different study spaces including laptops, paper and pen, tea, and other study needs

What Makes a Helpful Learning Environment?

In no particular order:

All of the materials you need are close by, including books, your laptop or tablet, paper and pens, etc.
The space is free of clutter and other distractions, including electronic distractions like social media - keep those sites/apps closed.
You feel comfortable sitting and/or standing in your space while you do your assignments, participate in class sessions, etc. (But not too comfortable - try not to use a place you typically use to relax.)

Here are a few more suggestions. These reflect the ideal learning environment, and may be more difficult to accomplish. If they aren't possible, don't worry about it.

The lighting isn't too bright or too dim.
You can close a door or sit with your back to a wall to increase privacy for yourself and other students in your classes.
You only use the space for your classes.

That last one is particularly challenging. I am currently using my kitchen table and a window sill in my living room as work spaces. If you can create a learning environment that only serves as your study space, go for it. If you cannot, find other ways to tell your brain, "This is the time and space to learn."

When you aren't using the space for school work, clear as much of the materials as you can out of the space.
Then, every time you are ready to learn, set out the materials you will use while you work on your online classes.
Add something to your space that reminds you why you are in college (e.g., a photo of a loved one, your goal written out, an inspiring quotation, etc.).

Be Creative

What else can you do to create a learning environment that will help you be successful in your online classes?

Walk Away

The final characteristic of a designated learning environment is that you can walk away from it. You can give your brain perceivable breaks from learning. Online learning can take over every free minute you have. Step away from your learning happy place!

Images by Rudy and Peter Skitterians, StockSnap , and Peter Olexa from Pixabay